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Vikings expect Kyler Murray to return in Week 3

PUBLISHED Sep 20, 2026, 7:08 PM ET

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Sources: 26

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Sources: 26

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell stated the team expects quarterback Kyler Murray to clear the NFL concussion protocol early next week ahead of a Week 3 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. O'Connell did not formally name Murray starter, though that remains the expectation. Murray missed Sunday's 9-3 Week 2 victory over the Chicago Bears after being limited in all three practice sessions last week. O'Connell described Murray as feeling well and doing great. Murray suffered the concussion on the 11th play of his team debut during a Week 1 win against the Green Bay Packers following a hit by safety Javon Bullard, who received an unnecessary roughness penalty. Backup Carson Wentz started Week 2, completing 23 of 39 passes for 276 yards, three touchdowns, and zero turnovers as Minnesota moved to 2-0. Final clearance requires full practice participation and sign-off from an independent neurologist.

By Yusra M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On March 2026, Kyler Murray signed a contract with Minnesota Vikings.
On August 12, 2026, Minnesota Vikings named Kyler Murray starting quarterback.
On September 14, 2026, Murray sustained a Week 1 head concussion against Packers.
On September 14, 2026, Carson Wentz relieved Murray, throwing three touchdown passes.
On September 16, 2026, Murray participated as limited in Wednesday practice session.
On September 17, 2026, Murray logged limited practice participation for second consecutive day.
On September 18, 2026, Vikings officially ruled Murray out for Week 2 contest.
On September 19, 2026, Murray completed third limited practice session of week.
On September 20, 2026, Carson Wentz started Week 2 game against Chicago Bears.
On September 21, 2026, O'Connell projected early-week concussion protocol clearance for Murray.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Vikings expect starting quarterback Kyler Murray back for Week 3.
Possible long-term US impact: High-ceiling offensive scheme restored for undefeated Minnesota Vikings season trajectory.
Most affected groups: Minnesota Vikings, Kyler Murray, Carson Wentz, fantasy football managers, opponents.
Priority Guidance: Official team injury reports and independent neurologist concussion protocol clearance updates.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 26
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 26

Explain Framing

Left: Insufficient evidence, sports reporting lacks ideological framing dimensions. Center: Focuses objectively on coach statements, medical protocol status, and stats. Right: Insufficient evidence, sports reporting lacks ideological framing dimensions.